Marriott's Ritz-Carlton Opens in Wuhan
Skift Take
New Zealand drew 1.79 million holiday arrivals in 2025, up 12% from 2024 but still about 9% below 2019 pre-pandemic levels. Plus, Marriott expands in China and other hotel deal and development news.
Stats NZ’s latest data shows holiday arrivals in 2025 to New Zealand were up 12% from 2024 to 1.79 million. That was still around 9% below 2019 levels. Business arrivals were only 203,033, down about 41% from 2019 and just slightly up year-over-year. Australian holiday arrivals were roughly 15% over 2024 at 657,445, and up 8% from 2019 levels. Australian business arrivals were down 36% from 2019 at 135,010 but were up 15% from 2024.
South Korean integrated resort operator Shin Hwa World is throwing in the towel on trying to build up its casino operations. After reporting a loss of US$43.71 million in FY25 and a significant decline in gaming revenue, it has decided to shift its focus far beyond hospitality and gaming, positioning Jeju Shinhwa World as a dynamic tourism paradise. It will focus on a holistic experience tailored to attract luxury travel and leisure travelers, but also corporate clients, education groups, lifestyle influenc
